Excision of Thryoglosal Cyst and Fistula

A Thyroglossal cyst is a fluid filled sac that is a remnant of Thyroglossal duct, which forms the Thyroid gland. It usually appears in childhood and is attached to the hyoid bone in the neck.

How do I know if my child has a Thyroglossal cyst

The best way to test for it is to see if there is a smooth swelling in the midline or to the left and it moves on swallowing or by protruding the tongue.

It may not become apparent till adulthood.
It is best operated by the age of 6-10 years because:
It carries risk of Infections
It is cosmetically unsightly
It may cause compression and difficulty in breathing and or swallowing

What does the operation involve?

The operation is done under general anaesthesia as a day case, through an incision over the cyst.